General Manager

Head Office in Bedfordshire but hybrid working is possible due to a network of offices/depotsDB Search has been retained by a nationwide leading provider of engineering services to seek out a new General Manager. Working with a range of national and regional customers this business provides installation, maintenance, servicing and replacement of mechanical and electrical equipment both on a contracted and emergency basis. Due to the desire to succession plan, we are looking to speak with well-rounded senior management candidates who not only understand driving efficiencies in operations but have a commercial understanding too. As the General Manager you will have a key executive position in the company and are responsible for the overall strategy, planning, and execution of operational activities. The role requires a strategic and innovative mindset, as well as the ability to lead and manage teams towards achieving the highest level of operational effectiveness whilst increasing customer loyalty and reducing costs. In time, commercial functions will report to this position with growth in both revenue and margin being the main targets.Scope of the role:Ability to set the operational vision and national strategy ensuring operational effectiveness is achieved in all areas To set the vision and be capable of defining a strategy and measurable outputs for delivery Develop and implement operational strategies to support the achievement of the overall business objectives of revenue growth and enhanced profitabilityDevelop strong relationships with key customers and partners to drive business growth and foster increased customer loyaltyDevelop strong collegiate relationships with key internal stakeholders and departments allowing the business to win as a team based on “togetherness & trust”Develop operating procedures which allow for increased working efficiencies and increased service/performanceWork closely with IT to ensure all technology is being utilised as effectively as possible to drive operating efficienciesDrive Health & Safety standards of operating within all areas of the business to drive a safety culture of “protecting people”Aim to reduce costs without service level reductions through the building of strong relationships with suppliersDevelop a fleet strategy which optimises availability and hardware whilst reducing costsDevelop and manage budgets and financial performance metrics to ensure that operational activities are aligned with the overall business strategyManage the overall effectiveness of the 24-hour call centre to maximise customer service and loyaltyEnsure customer service is of the highest calibre setting the standard for the industry and putting the “customer first”Nurture and develop a high-performance culture allowing your teams and the wider business to deliver on their “performance promise”Continuously improve working procedures/processes to ensure your teams are working smarter and “moving forward”Support commercial teams and have a full understanding of the sales process to assist in the winning of new businessWorks closely with sales to ensure the forecasted business is planned and resourced effectivelyDevelop commercial thinking within the engineering team to foster a culture of spotting and raising avenues for growth within existing clientsDeveloping digital marketing campaigns which increase the national visibility of the business and the acquisition of new customersPerson Specification:Excellent communicatorOperational experience gained in a service delivery business, preferably within engineeringMotivator and leader of diverse teamsAbility to build strong relationships both internally & externallyAbility to analyse costs and look to reduce expenditureSystems/IT dexterous - Able to understand how to streamline procedures/technology to increase effectiveness - Excel CompetentGreat Leadership & coaching skillsStrong negotiation skills, with the ability to develop and manage commercial agreements with suppliersAbility to work effectively under pressure, with the flexibility to adapt to changing business priorities.Demonstrable experience of commercial thinking and working closely with Sales/Marketing to drive growth in existing accountsHistory of supporting Sales/Marketing to win new ticket accounts and/or new channels including face-to-face meetings with potential new customers when necessary Applications are invited from candidates with the required skillset gained in a business which preferably provides engineering services to customers across the UK. These businesses could be in HVAC, IT, Industrial/Commercial building services, Industrial Door Services, Facilities Management or Emergency Call Out services. Due to the high number of applications being received at present, it is not always possible to respond to all applicants. Please keep in mind that if you do not get a response within 14 days, your application on this occasion has been unsuccessful.